FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – New England Revolution II looks to remain unbeaten in its inaugural season, hosting its second match at Gillette Stadium on Friday night against Orlando City B. The contest kicks off at 7:00 p.m. ET and is available nationally on ESPN+, and internationally on YouTube.
Revolution II were idle last weekend following a season-opening 0-0 home draw on July 25 against expansion side Union Omaha in both teams’ first competitive match. New England goalkeeper Joe Rice stopped all four shots on target, earning USL League One Team of the Week honors for his efforts. Offensively, Revolution II nearly claimed the victory with a pair of late chances. Midfielder Mayele Malango struck the post with a curling shot in the 77th minute and defender Ryo Shimazaki had his long-range effort denied in the 82nd minute.
"I thought it was a good performance overall after looking back at the tape,” Revolution II Head Coach Clint Peay said. “Some of the things we talked about going into the game I think the guys did a great job of executing, especially defensively. We were able to create some moments in the game where if we were just a little sharper we translate those into quality chances or goals. So for a first start, I'm very pleased."
Orlando City B had the opening weekend off before beginning its season last Saturday night on the road. Orlando traveled up the East Coast to Statesboro, Ga. to face South Georgia Tormenta FC, falling 2-0 at Erk Russell Park. Orlando goalkeeper and former Revolution Academy product Austin Aviza made seven saves in the loss. It was also the first professional match for new Orlando City B Head Coach Marcelo Neveleff, who served as an assistant coach for the Revolution from 2017-19.
Match #2: Revolution II vs. Orlando City B
Date: Friday, August 7, 2020
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Location: Gillette Stadium (Foxborough, Mass.)
BROADCAST INFORMATION
Streaming:ESPN+ (National) / YouTube (International)
Talent: Joe Malfa (play-by-play)
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Here are some top storylines ahead of Friday’s match against Orlando City B:
- Revolution II Head Coach Clint Peay seeking his first professional coaching victory following a 0-0 draw against Union Omaha in the season opener.
- The Revs II defense and goalkeeper Joe Rice keeping a second consecutive clean sheet to start the season.
- Revolution first-team players Collin Verfurth and Nicolas Firmino making a second appearance for the club.
- Revolution Academy players Trevor Burns, Kaoru Fujiwara, and Ronilson Mendes potentially earning a spot in the Matchday 18 for a second straight week
